re: Four Current Challenges, Lessons, Solutions from Mervyn Adrian, Senior VP, Forrester Research

Graham Jones — Mon, 05 Jun 2006 21:44:21 GMT

It is always interesting to get input from someone as experienced and knowledgeable as Mervyn Adrian. However, there was a particular comment that resonated with me, "Communicate clearly and frequently". This is one piece of advice that I would encourage everyone to heed and take to heart. This is something that I have always tried to "live" by. We all know that it is impossible to be all things to all people all of the time. So regular communication, even if it's, "I am still here and haven't forgotten about you", buys you time and respect. Within reason people will then give you the opportunity to deal with their needs.

How often do you make a point of updating your boss without he or she chasing you; daily, weekly, monthly? I always tried to make a point of keeping my bosses up to date such that they never had to chase me! Find out what frequency works best and stick to it. Every person is different.

You must, of course, mean what you say! Otherwise, then you will lose respect and, once lost, it is awfully tough to get it back. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that you cannot afford the time to communicate and keep all of the "balls in the air". You should be thinking that you cannot afford not to communcate! With the convenience of email today, it literally only takes a few seconds to "keep the engine ticking over". The most important part is to have the presence of mind and do it.

Cheers
Graham J.

re: Four Current Challenges, Lessons, Solutions from Mervyn Adrian, Senior VP, Forrester Research

Stephen Ibaraki, FCIPS,I.S.P., sibaraki@cips.ca — Wed, 07 Jun 2006 01:47:59 GMT

Graham,

Your sentiments about “regular communication” is one area ignored by many. However it is a constant mantra I hear from top leaders. I would also add, Instant Messaging to E-mail as a good vehicle. There is a tendency to wait until a full message or solution is on-hand before communicating—I call this perfection paralysis. It’s good to provide the equivalent of a software installation status bar—people want to know what’s happening.

Fine comment Graham!

Cheers,
Stephen Ibaraki